Matthew 25:10

KJV

And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} while they {G846} went {G565} to buy {G59}, the bridegroom {G3566} came {G2064}; and {G2532} they that were ready {G2092} went in {G1525} with {G3326} him {G846} to {G1519} the marriage {G1062}: and {G2532} the door {G2374} was shut {G2808}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But as they were going off to buy, the bridegroom came. Those who were ready went with him to the wedding feast, and the door was shut.

Berean Standard Bible

But while they were on their way to buy it, the bridegroom arrived. Those who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet, and the door was shut.

American Standard Version

And while they went away to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage feast: and the door was shut.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 25:10 marks a critical turning point in the Parable of the Ten Virgins, depicting the sudden arrival of the bridegroom and the subsequent exclusion of those who were unprepared. This verse powerfully illustrates the irreversible consequences of spiritual negligence, emphasizing the imperative of constant vigilance and readiness for the Lord's return, as the opportunity to enter into His presence is finite and time-bound.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of [Matthew 25](/matthew/25 "Matthew 25 - Parables of the Kingdom and Judgment"), which forms the third and final part of Jesus's Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24-25). Following a detailed prophecy about the destruction of the temple and signs of the end times in [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse"), Jesus shifts to parables that underscore the necessity of watchfulness and readiness for His second coming. The Parable of the Ten Virgins ([Matthew 25:1-13](/matthew/25-1-13 "Matthew 25:1-13 - The Parable of the Ten Virgins")) immediately precedes the Parable of the Talents ([Matthew 25:14-30](/matthew/25-14-30 "Matthew 25:14-30 - The Parable of the Talents")) and the description of the Final Judgment ([Matthew 25:31-46](/matthew/25-31-46 "Matthew 25:31-46 - The Judgment of the Nations")), all collectively stressing accountability and preparedness for the Master's return. Matthew 25:10 is the climactic moment of the virgins' narrative, where the separation between the ready and the unready becomes permanent.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Jewish wedding customs provide the essential backdrop for understanding this parable. Typically, the wedding festivities began with the groom, accompanied by his friends, leaving his father's house to go to the bride's house, often at an unexpected hour, frequently at night. The bride and her bridesmaids would be waiting, and upon the groom's arrival, they would join a torch-lit procession back to the groom's house for the marriage feast. The bridesmaids were expected to have their lamps trimmed and filled with oil to light the way. The "oil" was not merely for a brief moment but for the duration of the waiting period and the procession, symbolizing a sustained state of readiness. The "door" being shut was a common practice once the wedding feast began, signifying that no latecomers would be admitted, ensuring the privacy and sanctity of the celebration. This cultural detail underscores the finality of the exclusion depicted in the verse.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 25:10 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Olivet Discourse and the broader Gospels. The most prominent theme is **preparedness and vigilance**, as highlighted by the contrast between the wise and foolish virgins. The foolish virgins' lack of sufficient oil, representing spiritual readiness, leads to their exclusion, echoing Jesus's repeated warnings to "watch" in [Matthew 24:42](/matthew/24-42 "Matthew 24:42 - Be Ready, for You Do Not Know the Hour"). This verse also underscores the **urgency and unpredictability of Christ's return**, emphasizing that the "bridegroom came" at an unforeseen moment, a truth consistently taught throughout [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - Warnings of the End Times"). Furthermore, the "shut door" vividly portrays the **consequences of spiritual neglect and the finality of divine judgment**, a theme further developed in the subsequent parables of [Matthew 25](/matthew/25 "Matthew 25 - Parables of the Kingdom and Judgment"), where opportunities for repentance and entry into the kingdom are ultimately sealed.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **ready (Greek, _hétoimos'_):** Derived from an old noun signifying "fitness," this word describes something "adjusted" or "prepared." In this context, it refers to a state of being fully equipped and expectant, not merely having good intentions but possessing the necessary spiritual resources (symbolized by the oil) to meet the bridegroom. It implies a proactive and sustained state of readiness, contrasting sharply with the unpreparedness of the foolish virgins.
* **bridegroom (Greek, _nymphíos'_):** This term refers to the groom in a wedding, but in the context of the parable, it is a clear **Symbolism** for Jesus Christ Himself. His "coming" signifies His glorious second advent. The use of "bridegroom" evokes imagery of intimacy, covenant, and joyous expectation, setting the stage for the ultimate "marriage" between Christ and His church.
* **shut (Greek, _kleíō'_):** This primary verb means "to close" or "to shut up," conveying a sense of finality and irreversible closure. It is not a temporary closing but a definitive sealing. In the parable, the door being "shut" signifies the end of the opportunity for entry into the marriage feast, symbolizing the definitive and unalterable nature of divine judgment and the cessation of opportunities for salvation or entry into God's eternal kingdom once the appointed time has passed.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And while they went to buy,"**: This phrase highlights the foolish virgins' desperate, last-minute attempt to acquire what they lacked. Their decision to go "to buy" oil signifies their belated realization of their spiritual deficiency and their attempt to remedy it when it was already too late. This action underscores the futility of procrastination in matters of eternal significance.
* **"the bridegroom came;"**: This is the pivotal moment of the verse and the parable. The sudden, unexpected arrival of the bridegroom (Jesus Christ) emphasizes the unpredictable nature of His second coming, a theme consistently stressed throughout the Olivet Discourse. His arrival initiates the final separation and judgment.
* **"and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage:"**: This clause describes the blessed outcome for the wise virgins. Their state of "readiness" (having sufficient oil) allowed them immediate entry into the "marriage" feast. This symbolizes the faithful believers who are spiritually prepared and vigilant, entering into the eternal celebration and fellowship with Christ in His kingdom.
* **"and the door was shut."**: This is the stark and sobering conclusion. The closing of the door signifies the definitive and irreversible end of opportunity for those who were not ready. It represents the finality of judgment and the permanent exclusion from the joy and fellowship of God's kingdom for those who neglected to prepare.

#### Literary Devices
The Parable of the Ten Virgins, and specifically this verse, is rich in **Symbolism**. The **bridegroom** unequivocally symbolizes Jesus Christ, whose return is the central event. The **ten virgins** represent all professing believers, while the distinction between the "wise" and "foolish" highlights the difference between true, prepared disciples and those with only outward profession. The **lamps** symbolize one's outward testimony or faith, while the **oil** is a potent symbol for the inner spiritual life—perhaps the Holy Spirit, genuine faith, good works, or a deep, abiding relationship with God, which cannot be borrowed or acquired at the last moment. The **marriage** or **marriage feast** symbolizes the joyous consummation of God's kingdom and the eternal fellowship with Christ. The **shut door** is a powerful symbol of finality, judgment, and irreversible exclusion. The entire parable functions as an **Allegory**, an extended metaphor where elements of the story directly correspond to spiritual truths about Christ's return and the judgment. Furthermore, the narrative employs **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the ultimate separation and judgment that will occur at the end of the age, urging listeners to heed the warning and prepare.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 25:10 serves as a profound theological statement on eschatological readiness and divine judgment. It underscores the critical importance of personal spiritual diligence and the irreversible nature of the "day of the Lord." The parable dispels any notion of a second chance after the Master's arrival, emphasizing that the time for preparation is now. It highlights God's sovereign timing, which remains unknown to humanity, thereby demanding perpetual vigilance. The "shut door" is a stark reminder that while God's grace is abundant, there is a boundary to opportunity, and those who neglect their spiritual responsibilities will face the consequence of exclusion from His eternal presence. This passage calls believers to cultivate an active, living faith that is sustained by an internal supply (the oil), rather than a superficial or borrowed profession.

* [Luke 12:35-36](/luke/12-35-36 "Luke 12:35-36 - Be Ready for the Master's Return")
* [Revelation 19:7-9](/revelation/19-7-9 "Revelation 19:7-9 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb")
* [Hebrews 9:27](/hebrews/9-27 "Hebrews 9:27 - Appointed to Die Once, Then Judgment")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 25:10 issues a timeless and urgent call to spiritual vigilance and personal responsibility. It challenges believers to move beyond mere profession to a genuine, active, and sustained faith. The "oil" in the parable compels us to examine the depth of our spiritual lives: Are we cultivating an intimate relationship with God through prayer, study of His Word, and obedience? Are we living in a manner that reflects our anticipation of Christ's return, or are we spiritually complacent, relying on past experiences or the faith of others? The "shut door" serves as a powerful warning against procrastination in matters of faith and salvation. It reminds us that opportunities are not infinite, and the time to prepare is now, while it is still called "today." Our readiness is not about fear, but about joyful expectation and diligent stewardship of the life and grace God has given us, ensuring that we are found faithful when the Bridegroom comes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "oil" do I need to cultivate in my spiritual life to ensure I am truly ready for Christ's return?**
* **Am I living with a sense of urgency and vigilance regarding the Lord's coming, or have I become complacent?**
* **How does the finality of the "shut door" impact my daily choices and priorities regarding my faith and witness?**

### FAQ
**What does the "oil" in the parable represent, and why was it so crucial?**

Answer: The "oil" in the Parable of the Ten Virgins is widely interpreted to represent the spiritual readiness and inner vitality necessary for a genuine relationship with God. While interpretations vary, common understandings include the Holy Spirit, true faith, a life of obedience, good works, or a deep, abiding personal relationship with Christ. It was crucial because it was the fuel for the lamps, symbolizing the light of their testimony and presence. Without sufficient oil, their lamps would go out, rendering them unable to participate in the procession and enter the marriage feast. This emphasizes that true spiritual preparedness is an internal, personal, and sustained condition that cannot be borrowed or acquired at the last minute. Just as the foolish virgins could not share their oil, one cannot share their personal faith or spiritual walk with another.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 25:10, though part of a parable, finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound significance in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the **Bridegroom** ([John 3:29](/john/3-29 "John 3:29 - John the Baptist's Testimony about Jesus")), whose first coming inaugurated the kingdom of God and whose second coming will consummate it. The "marriage" points to the ultimate union of Christ with His Church, His beloved bride, described beautifully in [Revelation 19:7-9](/revelation/19-7-9 "Revelation 19:7-9 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb"). The "readiness" of the wise virgins is not merely a moralistic call to good behavior, but a call to be found in Christ, clothed in His righteousness ([Isaiah 61:10](/isaiah/61-10 "Isaiah 61:10 - Garments of Salvation")), and filled with His Spirit. The "door was shut" underscores the finality of Christ's role as the ultimate Judge, who will separate the sheep from the goats ([Matthew 25:31-46](/matthew/25-31-46 "Matthew 25:31-46 - The Judgment of the Nations")) and whose decision is absolute. While Jesus came as Savior, offering open access to salvation through His sacrifice ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Door")), His return will mark the closing of that door for those who have rejected Him or failed to live in genuine expectation of His coming. Thus, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of Christ's dual role as the gracious inviting Savior and the righteous, discerning Judge, urging all to enter through Him, the only [door to eternal life](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life"), before the opportunity closes.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 13:25

When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:

1 Peter 1:13

¶ Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

Luke 12:36

And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.

Luke 12:37

Blessed [are] those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.

Matthew 24:44

Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.

Genesis 7:16

And they that went in, went in male and female of all flesh, as God had commanded him: and the LORD shut him in.

Revelation 22:20

¶ He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.